Shelters Close; Ringling and North Siesta Bridge Open With Limited Access
Enough said.
Image: Kim Doleatto
Both Manatee County and Sarasota counties have lifted evacuation orders for residents in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Manatee County shelters and north Sarasota County shelters shelters are closing—with the exception of Phillippi Shores Elementary in Sarasota County—and residents are now allowed to return to their homes. But county officials are pleading that people use extreme caution, as there are widespread reports of fallen trees and branches and snapped power lines. The flood risk also remains high, thanks to Ian's heavy rain and previous weeks' rainfall, which saturated the ground ahead of the storm.
Motorists are reminded to not drive through water of unknown depth. If you can’t see the road striping under the water, turn around. If power is out, drivers should treat each intersection as a four way stop and remain alert for unexpected road hazards and washouts.
Sarasota County is using a red, yellow and green-level map to alert residents whether it's safe.
Image: Courtesy Photo
In Sarasota County, officials are using a red, yellow and green-level system to inform the public about risks associated with leaving where they've sheltered.
Red areas are considered unsafe, and emergency services may not be available. There is extensive damage limiting travel, and access is limited to residents and business owners.
Yellow means power is out and trees and power lines are down. Traffic lights may be out and there is potential damage to drinking and wastewater. Safety precautions are required, and travel should be limited to essential needs.
In green areas, there are no limiting factors, and it is safe for the general public. All of Sarasota County is either in a red or yellow zone.
County officials ask that all residents continue to reduce water use to lessen strain on the county's water systems as they go back online.
BRIDGES = OPEN - The John Ringling Causeway & Siesta bridges are now open. Ringling Bridge access is limited to residents & business owners w/ID.
— City of Sarasota (@CityofSarasota) September 29, 2022
⚠️IMPORTANT⚠️ - Water & sewer services have NOT been restored yet. Please be aware and plan accordingly. pic.twitter.com/2Ir2dxz3O7
In the City of Sarasota, Siesta Key's North Bridge and the Ringling Bridge are open again; however, access is limited. City of Sarasota administrative offices will remain closed through Friday and will reopen on Monday, Oct. 3. Garbage pickup in the city will resume tomorrow.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital urgent care Centers at Heritage Harbour, University Parkway, Bee Ridge and Venice will also reopen at 1 p.m. today for regular hours.
